New Housing Initiative Supports Homeless Veterans in the Inland Empire
New Housing Complex for Homeless Veterans Underway in San Bernardino
Construction has commenced on a new housing complex designed to assist homeless veterans in the Inland Empire. The nonprofit organization U.S.VETS officially broke ground on Wednesday for a 30-unit development located near E Street and 13th Street, which aims to provide shelter for veterans currently without homes.
This initiative forms part of U.S.VETS’ larger mission to combat homelessness among former service members in a region where hundreds remain unhoused. “We have 500 veterans in this region that are considered unhoused,” stated Nicole Starks-Murray, executive director of U.S.VETS Inland Empire.
As the largest nonprofit addressing veteran homelessness in the United States, U.S.VETS envisions the new complex as more than just housing. It will also offer essential support services to help veterans stabilize their lives. Joe Lee, a permanent housing coordinator with U.S.VETS Inland Empire, noted, “It can be mixed. We have spots for single (veterans) or spots for families. It all depends on the need of the veteran. We want to make sure they are comfortable and off the streets.”
Lee and his team already assist more than 60 veterans daily throughout the Inland Empire, coordinating housing and services tailored to each veteran after thorough screenings. “They can start their internal healing once they get housed. We believe housing first makes someone more subjectable to advance in life,” he added.
The $28 million project is being developed in collaboration with San Bernardino County and the city of San Bernardino. A significant contribution from a Holocaust survivor and his wife, who settled in San Bernardino after World War II, enabled the acquisition of the land designated for veteran housing.
The ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony featured local leaders and a color guard, emphasizing the urgent need for housing for veterans who have served the nation. “Our nation is full of heroes and they deserve that,” said Starks-Murray. “That’s why we are here and enjoying the freedom. They secured our borders and came back and not had a space to call home is outrageous.”
U.S.VETS currently operates three housing sites across the Inland Empire, but this project will offer additional on-site support. The development will include a manager dedicated to addressing residents’ needs, including medical care and meals.
The new housing complex is anticipated to open in late 2024.
